The 10 Weirdest Discipline Rules That Actually Work For Parents

As a parent, sometimes you have to be creative because traditional discipline methods don’t always cut it. Luckily, there are some quirky techniques that work wonders for kids these days. They might seem unusual, but they’re worth trying. Here are ten strategies you can use:

Offer Television Time As A Reward

Tell your kids they can have thirty minutes of extra television time in their rooms if they’re good all day. Otherwise, they’ll need to sleep on time like always. The thought of losing their late-night TV time will keep them on their best behavior throughout the day.

Stick To A Schedule

While not exactly a disciplinary rule, sticking to a strict schedule also works. Your kids know it, and they might even like the routine. It helps them understand what’s coming next, which makes the day more predictable for them. In turn, it keeps them punctual and well-behaved.

Encourage Helpfulness

When your kids are bouncing off the walls, turn their energy toward something productive. Encourage them to help you with chores, like cleaning their rooms, and make it into a fun competition. The winner gets to choose a dessert or a fun family activity.

The Trash Bag Rule

Make it clear that if they don’t pick up their things before bath time, those items are going straight into the trash. Just do it once. After that, the children will definitely keep their messes to a minimum to avoid the dreaded trash bag.

The “Switcheroo” Game

When kids misbehave, let them switch roles and act as the parent while you play the child. Ask them to teach you the right way to behave. This playful approach encourages accountability, self-reflection, and good behavior without feeling like discipline.

Mr. Elf Sometimes Visits In July

Sometimes, you need to bring the Elf on the Shelf back—randomly, during the year. If your kids aren’t behaving, the Elf reappears with a note saying he’s worried they’ll end up on the naughty list. Who knew Santa could really help?

We Can’t Hear Screaming

When a child whines or screams at high decibels, pretend you can’t hear them. How? Tell them you’ve somehow become deaf to certain sounds—like the repetitive screaming of your name in an annoying tone. Your kid will quickly learn that screaming doesn’t get your attention anymore.

Time-Out, The Reverse Psychology

Instead of the usual time-out, try this quirky spin: when your child misbehaves, calmly tell them they’re being “so well-behaved” and can stay in their room for extra alone time. The reverse psychology works wonders when they realize that “alone time” is the last thing they want.

Silent Stare

Sometimes, words aren’t needed—just a firm, silent stare. The moment they misbehave, simply look at them without saying anything. That quiet intensity often makes them rethink their actions. It’s a non-verbal cue that gets the message across loud and clear.

The “Mystery Reward” 

Offer a mystery reward for good behavior, like, “If you can remain calm and attentive over the next hour, I’ve got something special for you later, but it’s a secret!” The curiosity about the mystery reward can motivate kids to behave better without feeling like they’re being bribed.